Oman has unveiled plans to extend a 1,000km rail network to the port city of Salalah.
The proposed route will receive government approval following the completion of feasibility studies.
The original line, to be completed in four phases, will include a 280km section from Muscat to Port of Sohar.
The second phase includes a 150km branch lne from Sohar to Al Ain, the third is a 58km extension from Sohar to Khatmat Malaha, and the last is a 520km stretch from Muscat to the Port of Duqm.
The system will run on a standard gauge double track and all the trains will be diesel-electrics.
Work on the network is expected to begin in late 2012, according to the Oman Observer.
